Two articles on transfusion guidelines in children

The transfusion of a blood product into a child is associated with a greater risk of harm when compared to an adult. The younger the child, the greater the risks. This article will present information concerning lower levels of haemoglobin that can be tolerated without detrimental effects, and how blood loss can be assessed to ensure that blood products are not transfused unnecessarily.

This article will highlight techniques that have been used in order to reduce or avoid the use of blood products. It will also present the specific issues relating to the transfusion of blood products which must be considered in order to reduce the incidence of associated adverse events.